Private label trends

Ostro Business visited the PLMA fair in Amsterdam on May 20th in order to keep up to date on trends within the Private Label-sector. A clear trend seems to be higher value lifestyle product series instead of seeking the lowest price.  Private label product series for only organic products (for instance, from such healthy ingredients as Stevia and Aloe Vera) or only for barbecuing will become more common. The packaging will be even more important in the future, and will be the key factor in order to appeal to the consumer.

Ostro Business signs co-operation agreement with Excedea

Ostro Business has signed a co-operation agreement with Excedea. Excedea is a leading management and investment advisor in growth markets in Eastern Europe and Asia. Ostro Business /Markus Jussila will represent Excedea’s services on the Finnish west coast and in the Vaasa region.

According to Markus Jussila, countries of Eastern Europe are especially interesting for companies in Vaasa and the west coast region, both as potential export markets but also from the point of view of sourcing, due to relatively short transport distances and also due to the traditionally good reputation of Finland in Eastern Europe.

Additional information: Ostro Business / Markus Jussila or Excedea/Martin Seppälä

International food companies are interested in Scandinavia

Ostro Business visited SIAL, the international food fair in Paris, on October 24-25th. The atmosphere in the fair was busy – no signs of recession visible there! Many companies were interested to expand their business in Scandinavia, but the markets are quite unknown for many. However, there is a widespread positive attitude towards Scandinavia. I recommend SIAL as a food business forum for any company in the industry.